Art and written open call submissions "All about me - using metaphors to explore identity" for Issue 77 of Haus-a-rest

Haus-a-rest Zine — www.haus-a-rest.com

Deadline: 27th November 2026

Who are you, beyond the labels, appearances and stories that define you?

We are inviting artists and writers to submit work for an exciting exhibition exploring the theme ‘All About Me: Using Metaphors to Explore Identity’.

Identity is complex, layered and constantly evolving. It is shaped by our experiences, memories, relationships, cultures, dreams, emotions and the ways we see ourselves and are seen by others. But how can we express something as personal and multifaceted as identity through our creative practice?

This exhibition invites you to explore who you are through the language of metaphor. Think beyond literal self-portraits and consider how objects, animals, landscapes, colours, patterns, symbols and everyday things might represent different aspects of your identity.

We want to see how you translate your personal experiences, thoughts and feelings into visual, material or conceptual expressions. Your work might be playful, reflective, abstract, humorous, challenging or deeply personal. There is no single right way to explore identity.

What are we looking for?
We welcome submissions in a variety of media, including:

Painting, drawing and illustration
Photography and digital art
Sculpture and 3D work
Textiles, collage and mixed media
Printmaking and ceramics
Installation and conceptual art
Other creative and experimental approaches

Artists of all backgrounds and experience levels are encouraged to apply -

 BUT THE WORK MUST BE RESOLVED, NOT GENERATED BY AI, AND YOU NEED TO INCLUDE WRITTEN CONTEXT AND AN INSTAGRAM TAG.

How to take part
Submit an artwork that responds to the theme ‘All About Me: Using Metaphors to Explore Identity’.

Alongside your artwork, please include a short statement explaining the metaphor behind your work and what it reveals about your identity.

Artists, we need an INSTAGRAM tag that is set to public.

Submission details:

You don't have to show us exactly who you are. Instead, show us what represents you. Use metaphor, imagination and creativity to tell your story in unexpected ways.

We look forward to seeing the world through your eyes!

There are no submission fees to enter or if you are selected!

Submission

Please submit:

• 1–3 artworks
• Artist name and location
• Artwork title, year and medium
• Dimensions / duration where applicable
• A short artist statement or description of the submitted work - THIS IS A MUST for the application. 
• Instagram tag - A MUST
• No AI generated work
• Website optional

Selection

Works will be selected based on their conceptual engagement, originality, artistic quality and relevance to the exhibition theme. The exhibition will bring together different approaches and media, creating a conversation between works.

Online Exhibition

Selected works will be presented in a curated online group exhibition, accompanied by artist names, artwork information and selected statements shared across our social media platform of 11k followers. And on www.haus-a-rest.com

Important Dates:

Submission deadline: 27th November 2026

Exhibition duration:  December 2026

For Writers:

• Genres: Short stories, essays, poetry, experimental writing, and cross-genre works
• Length: Up to 1,000 words for prose; up to 3 poems
• Format: Word document only
• Synopsis: A brief summary of the piece (50 words) explaining how it connects to the theme.

Terms and Conditions

• All submissions must be original works created by the applicant.
• Selected works will be featured in an online exhibition and/or a publication. 
• By submitting, you grant us the right to display, publish, and promote your work as part of this project.
• Typically, the works are online for six months, but this is not guaranteed.
• Artists and writers retain all rights to their work.

We look forward to your submission.

WHO WE ARE

Haus-a-rest is an independent online zine dedicated to showcasing creative voices worldwide, with over 10k social media followers.

We highlight visual art, literature, experimental work, and cross-disciplinary practice. Every issue is curated around a theme that asks artists and writers to push their boundaries and explore new ways of seeing.

@haus_a_rest

www.haus-a-rest.com
EDITORS:     @jennafox.artist and    @nicholarodgers.artist

Image courtesy of @jennafoxartist